Looking at how AmEx has presented itself via TV commercials, it’s always occurred for me as a card used by the white and rich and middle-aged or order. This is a pretty sizeable leap into a completely different 18-25 year old demographic. Plus, since it’s a prepaid card, folks developing their own personal policies about spending and credit can’t get into financial debt by racking up a huge credit card bill. That’s smart. If this partnership goes well, I wonder how quickly we’ll be seeing similar things for World of Warcraft, Elder Scrolls Online, or even games like Dota 2?

In doing a little Google-fu, I found an article from 2006 where the author said “It’s only a matter of time” before credit card companies reach out to tap the online games industry players to expand their brands. I guess that time is now.

American Express today announced a new strategic partnership with Riot Games to bring in-game rewards to League of Legends players through everyday spend with the American Express Serve® Prepaid Account. (1)

The American Express Serve Prepaid Account enhances the League of Legendsexperience by integrating a reward-based system called RP+. The RP+ program gives gamers Riot Points (RP), the virtual currency used to purchase in-game items like extra customization or boosts, not only for signing up, but for every qualifying purchase made with the Card.

League of Legends, which now has more than 32 million active monthly players worldwide who log more than one billion hours of gameplay a month, also boasts some of the world’s most passionate and dedicated players. Gamers who sign up for RP+ from American Express Serve have the option to receive a customized League of Legends Card with their choice of four popular Champions and original art from the game itself, giving players the opportunity to take a piece of the game they love with them everywhere they go.

The American Express Serve Prepaid Account allows Cardmembers to transfer money seamlessly between their fellow players who also have a Serve Account, free of charge. Players can also benefit from the money management features of the account, such as direct deposit, bill pay and free cash withdrawals at MoneyPass® ATMs. To sign up there are no credit checks, no hidden fees, and no minimum balance requirements to maintain.

“Riot Games is passionate about serving their players and giving them avenues for enhancing their gaming experience” said Stefan Happ, SVP, US Payment Options for American Express. “Together we’ve been able to create a great co-branded product with a unique rewards program that will help League of Legends players earn Riot Points whenever they use their Card to make qualifying purchases.”

With RP+ from American Express Serve, players can earn Riot Points in a number of ways:

+10,000 RP the first time you use Direct Deposit to add $20 or more to your Account

+1,000 RP for your first 10 purchases with your Card

League of Legends players can use their American Express Serve Prepaid Card virtually anywhere American Express® Cards are accepted worldwide, as well as enjoy access to American Express benefits like Purchase Protection, Roadside Assistance, Entertainment Access and more.

Players can choose a personalized Card with Teemo, Vi, Lux, Twisted Fate, the Summoner’s Cup or the League of Legends logo.

American Express has also become an official payment partner for the League Championship Series (LCS) and the official partner for World Championship, the premiere events for League of Legends professional esports.

About Riot GamesRiot Games was established in 2006 by entrepreneurial gamers who believe that player-focused game development can result in great games. In 2009, Riot released its debut title League of Legends to critical and player acclaim. Over 32 million play every month. Players form the foundation of our community and it’s for them that we continue to evolve and improve the League of Legends experience.